Magnafield is a startup that is developing frictionless, efficient levitation technology. It is a platform-based technology which can hold objects in the air without any physical contact.
“[With] this technology we are able to build a lot of different devices that can levitate objects with electromagnetic force,” Gatis Zvejnieks of Magnafield tells 3DPrint.com. “With this technology it is possible to build products like levitating table lamps, advertising displays, wireless chargers, equipment for medicine and almost endless individual solutions; for example levitating art sculptures.”
This 3D printed device was created to demonstrate the company’s technology, which currently remains in the early stages as far as development goes. They used a Mass Portal 3D Printer to print out the device. “[Mass Portal] believed in our idea and gave us one of their printers for prototyping,” says Zvejnieks. “For us as a start-up it is a very big push forward.”
“These devices are multifunctional,” Zvejnieks tells us. “Besides levitation, they can transfer wireless power to levitating objects and even exchange data between device and levitating part. As an example, I can mention a levitating robotic hand for operations in quarantine zones. This hand can move objects, analyze objects and send data outside quarantine zone.”
A levitating hand that can protect medical workers is something that could certainly help in preventing the spread of diseases, such as the recent Ebola outbreak in west Africa. Imagine if these hands could replace workers’ presence in these high risk areas, and prevent the spread of deadly viruses. This is just touching the surface though, as far as what this technology could ultimately lead to. I’m very excited to follow Magnafield in their endeavor to bring “smart” levitating machines and devices to market.
What do you think about this levitation device? Do you think this technology could lead to a more technologically advanced society? What else could you see this tech being used for? Discuss in the 3D Printed Electromagnetic Levitaton Device forum thread on 3DPB.com. Check out the videos below of the 3D printed levitation device in action.